Best Time For Rafting In Rishikesh (2024)

Are you planning your next rafting trip in Rishikesh, then here is a tip – Choose the right time that suits your needs and is generally safe. 

Don’t make the same mistake that I made. We went rafting in November (winter season). The freezing water, chilled weather, and high water level make rafting almost inaccessible.

But, I learned one thing – Summer is the ideal time for rafting. Warm weather, clear sky, and a pleasing environment, all enhance your rafting experience.

However, there are other factors that you should consider, like safety, water level, crowds, rafting points, any natural disaster, rain, exams, school time etc. Don’t worry, This post has covered everything.

Table of Content

• Best time for rafting in Rishikesh?
  • Best month for rafting in Rishikesh.
  • Timing for river rafting in Rishikesh?
  • Best time of day to raft in Rishikesh?
• Best season for rafting in Rishikesh.
• River Rafting Time Schedule
• Is rafting open in Rishikesh?
• When does rafting start in Rishikesh?
• How much time does it take to raft in Rishikesh?
• Things to Consider/Tips

1. Best time for rafting in Rishikesh

Generally, September to June is the ideal time for rafting in Rishikesh. And if you want me to narrow it down, then mid–September to mid-November and March to mid-June is the more appropriate time.

During this time, the weather, environment, Ganga River, temperature, etc are favorable for rafting.

But, in my opinion, the Summer season (March to June) is the best time for rafting. It is also the peak season when Rishikesh is overflowing with rafting enthusiasts.

Warm weather, clear sky, and lush green environment, every one of these make rafting a lifelong memory.

You can visit Rishikesh throughout the year, but to enjoy rafting this is the most appropriate time.

You have noticed, that I didn’t include the monsoon season, which starts in July and ends in August. But why?

Because, rafting is closed between these months, as it is the worst time for rafting.

Increased river levels, tremendous rain, flash flooding and uncertain weather can increase the danger associated with rafting.

Tips

• If you hate crowds then consider March and April. Because it’s exam time, and most families won’t choose this.
• And, if you have good bargaining skills, then you can get some significant discounts.

a) 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best time for kids, beginners, and families

May to June is the best time for newcomers, kids, and their families to go rafting in Rishikesh.

Because, first it’s the summer vacation. You don’t have to worry about school, exams or stuff. So, you can bring your kids to enjoy a safe rafting experience.

Pro tip – Choose the Brahmpuri rafting route, It’s safer for everyone.

Secondly, the weather is perfect. Warm and clear weather will aid you in chilled and cold water.

Third, it’s safe. And for kids, beginners, and families, safety should be your first priority.

b)💑 Best time for couples

For couples, post-monsoon or September is the most ideal time. A little warm and cold weather is perfect for your romantic trip.

In short, it’s pleasant, the river levels are suitable for rafting, and the overall conditions are ideal for a thrilling and enjoyable experience.

c)👨‍🦰Best time for adults, friends, and adventure seekers

If you are an adventure seeker, who wants a thrill or just a group of friends who want some fun and challenge, then you have 2 suitable options.

First is the Post-monsoon season (late September to mid-November) and second is the pre-summer season (early March to mid-April)

These time slots are perfect for water activities, as they offer optimal water levels, serene weather, perfect temperature and an exhilarating experience on the river.

Tip – Check weather conditions and water levels before embarking on the trip.

d) Best month for rafting in Rishikesh

If you are planning a rafting trip in Rishikesh, then certain months are best suited for Rafting. These months include winter, spring, and summer seasons. Let’s take a look at them.

• September
• October
• November
• March
• April
• May
• June

Besides these, there are monsoon months, which are considered dangerous for rafting. It includes –

• Late June
• July
• August
• Mid-September

So, even the authorities suspend any rafting activity during So, even the authorities suspend any rafting activity during these months for safety measures.

During these months, the weather is very unpredictable and dangerous, the level of the Ganga River crosses the safety mark, and unexpected rain becomes more common. That’s why, the rafting routes become more terrific and unstable.

e) Timing for river rafting in Rishikesh?

I think you are familiar with the best time and best month for rafting. But, you can’t go rafting whenever you want; there is a time limit set for this activity.

For example, if we take a look according to the weekdays, then the timing for rafting is

• Monday:- 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Tuesday:- 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Wednesday:- 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Thursday:- 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Friday:- 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Saturday:- 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Sunday:- 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

f) What is the best time of day to river raft in Rishikesh?

Our day is divided into three slots – Morning, Moon and Evening. Every slot has its benefits and drawbacks.

So, which time slot should we choose?

Well, I along with thousands of tourists prefer the afternoon time. The weather is clear and warm, which is perfect for water activities and the cold water of Ganga.

But let’s check all the options we have –

• Morning – Morning time can be frosty for Rafting, but the weather is more clear than any other time. Remember, it will be less crowded, as people prefer the afternoon for rafting.

• Afternoon. It is considered the best time for rafting in Rishikesh. The Hot and sunny weather provides comfortable and favorable conditions for water activities like Rafting.

• Evening – It is the least preferred time for rafting in Rishikesh, and I suggest you should avoid it. Weather is unpredictable, temperature is cold, vision is not clear and even winds are strong.

2. Best season for rafting in Rishikesh

Generally, Summer is considered the best season for rafting in Rishikesh, but not only for Rishikesh but the whole world.

During this season, the weather is hot and sunny, the environment is pleasant, the sky is more clear, the river is at its peak condition and especially the lush green nature.

But, let’s take a look at every season.

a) Summer

• Months – March to May
• Temperature – 14°C and 39°C
• My opinion – Best season

This season is best suited for Rafting, and if you are in the planning stage, then I suggest you choose this season.

During this season, the snow from Kedarnath and the Himalayas melts, so the Ganga River is in its peak condition.

We can’t forget the warm and hot weather. It is the best weather for water activities, especially rafting. Because many people (Including me) cherish the experience of swimming and getting wet in hot weather.

Besides this, you can also enjoy other activities, like camping, leisurely walks etc. Because the temperature is suitable for everything.

All of these reasons make summer the ultimate season for rafting.

Tips

• Make sure to pack light and airy clothes for warm weather in summer.
• A sunscreen of +30 is necessary
• Make sure to be hydrated
• Eat well and take sufficient rest

b) Winter

• Months – December to February
• Temperature – 8°C and 34°C. 
• My opinion – Second best season

Next, we have – The Winter season.

Generally, the weather and water of River Ganga is way too cold for rafting. So, yes rafting is accessible, but will be a tough experience.

Although, If you can handle the cold temperature, then you can consider this time.

There are other benefits of rafting in winter, such as there will be fewer crowds and packages will be more affordable.

However, if you want to visit Rishikesh as a normal tourist, then the winter is the best choice.

The crispy, chill and fresh atmosphere can captivate anyone, whether you are a kid, adult, or senior citizen irrespective of your purpose

Attention – Some rafting operators may suspend their services during the winter months due to these conditions.

Tips

• Make sure to pack warm clothes to fight the cold weather.
• Pack a jacket and sweater, too.
• Wear suitable footwear for Rafting.
• Windcheater
• In addition to these, mosquito repellants, lip balms, and moisturizers are also necessary.

c) Monsoon

• Months – July to September
• Temperature – 24°C and 35°C. 
• My opinion – Worst season to visit

At last, we have – The Monsoon season, which lasts for 2 months, July and August.

If I have to define it in one sentence – Then it is simply the worst time for rafting. But, why?

There are many factors, like unexpected rains, high water levels, flash flooding, cold weather and strong winds. Together they increase the chances of dangers and accidents associated with rafting.

But, don’t worry. Generally, rafting is not permitted during this season. Because of the safety reasons.

So, try to choose the summer season or worst case scenario the winter season.

Tips:

• Get an umbrella, windcheater, and waterproof stuff like a bag, wallet, clothes, etc.
• Your shoes should be sturdy and durable.
• Make sure to wear light clothes.
• Take care of your electronic gadgets.
• Avoid trekking and hiking on your own because it is dangerous, especially in monsoon season.

d) Personal Preference

Before concluding, I want to share my personal preference for the Best Time For Rafting In Rishikesh.

And it is the Summer season.

If you are visiting Rishikesh for Rafting, then the summer season is just perfect for everyone. Hot and humid weather with sunlight is an ideal choice for water activities.

3. River Rafting Time Schedule

a) Brahmpuri

• 1st Rafting Trip start time – 8:00 am
• 2nd Rafting Trip start time – 11:00 am
• 3rd Rafting Trip start time – 1:30 pm.
• Last Rafting Trip start time – 3:00 pm.
• Duration –  2 hours

b) Shivpuri – 16 km

• 1st Rafting Trip start time – 8:00 am
• 2nd Rafting Trip start time – 12:30 pm
• Last Rafting Trip start time – 2:30 pm.
• Duration –  3.5 hours

c) Marine Drive – 24 Km

• 1st Rafting Trip start time – 8:00 am
• 2nd Rafting Trip start time – 10:30 am
• Last Rafting Trip start time – 12:30 pm.
• Duration – 4.5 hours

d) Byasi 30 Km 

• Only 1 Rafting Trip – 8:00 am to 9:00 am.
• Duration – 7 hours.

4. Is rafting open in Rishikesh?

Yes!

Rafting in Rishikesh is open, allowed and growing every year, attracting thousands of rafting enthusiasts from all over the world.

However, it has a time limit. Legally rafting starts in mid-September and goes all the way to June, then ceases for 2 months (monsoon season), and then continues as usual.

a) Is river rafting open in Rishikesh now?

That’s a tricky question: Is river rafting open in Rishikesh now?

Well, the answer is quite simple.

If you are reading this post in September and June, then we can say Rafting is open in Rishikesh right now.

So, you can plan your rafting trip and start packing.

5. When does river rafting close in Rishikesh?

There are two conditions under which the authorities of Rishikesh halt all rafting activities.

First, in the monsoon season. This is the most dangerous time for rafting and any water activity, because of unstable weather, high water level, heavy rains and flash flooding.

Second, when a natural disaster occurs or is predicted.

This mainly includes flash flooding, floods and landslides. These disasters heavily affect rafting activity. So, the government and authorities will immediately stop all water activities till further notice.

So before planning, make sure to keep updated on all the news and weather forecasts of Rishikesh.

6. How much time does it take to raft in Rishikesh?

Generally, One day is sufficient for rafting in Rishikesh.

Rafting takes only a few hours of your time, and it’s more than enough to feel all the thrill and adventure.

Don’t mention, The feeling on the Ganga water and tackling those white water rapids is fantastic.

But, it also depends on your rafting route, if your route is only 5 to 10km, then a few hours is sufficient, but if you planning a long raft of 70 km (like Devprayag), then it would take at least 2 days.

Of course, camping takes place in these long rafting stretches because no one can raft for two consecutive days.

So, the duration totally depends on your rafting route.

7. Things to Consider

There are mainly three factors, you should consider before choosing your rafting time.

a) Crowd

If you are not a fan of crowds, or are an introvert, then you should avoid the peak time of rafting. Which is September-November and April-May. During this time, Rishikesh is packed with a huge number of rafting enthusiasts.

This can make you wait a bit longer for your turn and it also increases the possibility of rafting collisions.

So, try to choose a less crowded time, like December, February, march etc.

b) Water Level

You can also check the water level of the Ganga River. Make sure it’s not above the safety level and too low, that rafting becomes inaccessible.

Generally, the Ganga River is almost 30m deep, but in Rishikesh and especially on the famous rafting routes, it is normally 5 to 7 m deep.

c) Weather

Before embarking on your trip, check the weather status of Rishikesh. If there is a forecast of heavy rain, flash floods etc, then try to postpone your trip.

8. Tips

There are some tips and guidelines to consider before you choose the Best Time For Rafting In Rishikesh.

• Never visit Rishikesh for rafting in the monsoon season.
• Winter is also unsuitable for everyone due to bone-chilling temperatures.
• Don’t wear an oversized jacket during rafting in any season.
• And, try to wear clothes in layers. So that you can remove them according to the surroundings and temperature.
• If you follow the guidelines, then rafting is generally safe in every season except monsoon.
• Before planning, make sure to check the weather status of Rishikesh.
• Make sure to pack all the necessary clothes for your trip according to your suitable time, season, or month.

9. FAQ

10. Wrap Up

So, the best time for rafting in Rishikesh is From September to June 30th.

And to make it more narrow or accurate, September to mid-November, then the end of March to the whole of May.

Well, it also depends on your preference, rafting route, any weather-related conditions, etc.

Winter and summer seasons both have their reason for being the Best Time For Rafting In Rishikesh.

But my suggestion would be the summer season.

It is perfect for any water-related activity like Rafting, swimming, and even camping at night.